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A Conversation with Taylor Fields

November 2, 2023

Throughout 2023, Pulse will feature interviews with experienced practitioners whose insights about spa specialties will help facility leaders to recruit, engage and retain staff members.

Kristine Huffman for Pulse: You started off in the industry as a spa attendant. How did you get that job?

TAYLOR FIELDS: I made an effort to meet property leaders through social events and interactions in my neighborhood and learned more about the resort. Once I graduated high school, I applied at the property and listed one of them as a personal reference.

Pulse: You are now the corporate director of spas for PCH Hotels & Resorts. Can you tell us a little bit about how you became so successful?

TF: When I wasn’t attending to spa guests, I was out in the retail area or engaging with the front desk and getting involved with more aspects of the spa operation. When I started as a supervisor, I had a lot of angst going into a position where I was suddenly in a position where my peers were reporting to me, but I think a lot of my success can be attributed to caring and treating people with respect. Also, I’m always curious. It helps me be prepared for any type of call or interview or meeting. I don’t like to go in and just wing it. I strive to be a continuous learner.

Abhyanga

A form of ayurvedic medicine that involves massage of the body with large amounts of warm oil which is often pre-medicated with herbs for specific conditions.

Acrylic Nails

A polymer coating used as an extension for natural nails.

Acupressure

Finger massage designed to release muscle tension and promote healing by applying pressure to “energy points” or “meridians” in the body.

Acupuncture

An ancient oriental healing technique discovered and developed more than three thousand years ago, acupuncture is based on Taoist philosophy.

Affirmation Therapy

This technique is used to overcome physical ailments and emotional problems by repeating a positive statement, similar to the therapy of visualization.

Alexander Technique

The Alexander Technique is a method that works to change (movement) habits in our everyday activities. It is a simple and practical method for improving ease and freedom of movement, balance, support and coordination.

Alpha Beta Hydroxy Acid Body Exfoliation

Other Name(s):
Full Body Chemical Peel, Glycolic Body Peel, AHA or BHA Body Exfoliation

Definition of Offering:
Full body method of chemical exfoliation employing the use of Alpha/Beta Hydroxy Acids.

Amanda Al-Masri: Evolve or Become Irrelevant

September 14, 2023

Join key leaders within the industry as they share insights on how constant evolution within the spa business is necessary to thrive, and how spas are adapting and changing to stay relevant.

Pulse: What are some of the challenges and opportunities of new technology in the spa?

Amanda Al-Masri: Our recent 2023 Trends Report found more than half of travelers across the globe are aiming to have an easier travel experience in 2023, leading to clear opportunity for us as an industry to offer innovative solutions that are both human and technology-led. In this widely digital world, we see technology as a means to provide an enhanced experience for guests and, ultimately, smooth operations so that our team members can focus on what they do best: provide guests with exceptional hospitality and service.

While technology often powers the day-to-day, it’s people who provide the relatability, personalization and genuine hospitality that we have grown accustomed to. That’s why more than half of global travelers say they’ll care about reliable and friendly service. There are just some things— like a smile or warm greeting—that can’t be digitally replicated or replaced, and our team members are always available to deliver that and more.

Amma

This bodywork therapy utilizes traditional Asian medical principles to assess and evaluate imbalances in the energetic system. It aims to restore and maintain optimum health through the treatment of the physical body, the bio-energy, and the emotions, which are all bound into the neuromuscular system.

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